TMZ claims that Winter's mother, Crystal Workman, was accused of both physically and emotionally abusing her daughter. She's due back in court for another hearing on November 20th.

Shannelle, the sister with whom Ariel is currently living, was also taken from Crystal's home as a child by the Department of Children and Family Services—the result of what TMZ describes as "similar abuse allegations." Shanelle reportedly lived in foster care for a time, and never returned home.